U.S. patent application number 15/219581 was filed with the patent office on 2017-02-02 for process for reducing malodour in a pack.
The applicant listed for this patent is The Procter & Gamble Company. Invention is credited to Laura Jane CAUFIELD, Philip Andrew CUNNINGHAM, Nathalie Sophie LETZELTER.
Application Number | 20170029751 15/219581 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53773287 |
Filed Date | 2017-02-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170029751 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
LETZELTER; Nathalie Sophie ;
et al. |
February 2, 2017 |
PROCESS FOR REDUCING MALODOUR IN A PACK
Abstract
A process for reducing malodour in a pack comprising a cleaning
composition, the composition comprising a cleaning-active capable
of generating malodour and an oxidizing agent, the process
comprising the steps of: i) creating a mixture comprising the
cleaning-active capable of generating malodour and the oxidising
agent; ii) leaving the mixture to rest for a resting period of at
least 24 hours; and iii) optionally converting the mixture into a
unit-dose product; and iv) packing the mixture resulting from step
ii) or the unit-dose product resulting from step iii) into a
pack.
Inventors: |
LETZELTER; Nathalie Sophie;
(Trimdon, GB) ; CAUFIELD; Laura Jane; (Newcastle
upon Tyne, GB) ; CUNNINGHAM; Philip Andrew; (Vossem,
BE) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
The Procter & Gamble Company |
Cincinnati |
OH |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
53773287 |
Appl. No.: |
15/219581 |
Filed: |
July 26, 2016 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C11D 17/042 20130101;
C11D 17/045 20130101; C11D 17/0073 20130101; B65D 85/84 20130101;
C11D 17/043 20130101; B65D 85/808 20130101; C11D 3/3942 20130101;
C11D 3/33 20130101; C11D 17/044 20130101; C11D 3/386 20130101 |
International
Class: |
C11D 17/04 20060101
C11D017/04; B65D 85/808 20060101 B65D085/808; C11D 3/33 20060101
C11D003/33; B65D 85/84 20060101 B65D085/84; C11D 3/386 20060101
C11D003/386; C11D 3/39 20060101 C11D003/39 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jul 29, 2015 |
EP |
15178895.7 |
Claims
1. A process for reducing malodour in a pack comprising a cleaning
composition, the composition comprising a cleaning-active capable
of generating malodour and an oxidizing agent, the process
comprising the steps of: i) creating a mixture comprising the
cleaning-active capable of generating malodour and the oxidising
agent; ii) leaving the mixture to rest for a resting period of at
least 24 hours; and iii) optionally converting the mixture into a
unit-dose product; and iv) packing the mixture resulting from step
ii) or the unit-dose product resulting from step iii) into a
pack.
2. The process according to claim 1 wherein the cleaning-active
capable of generating malodour is an amine-containing cleaning
active.
3. The process according to claim 1 wherein the cleaning-active
capable of generating malodour is an amine-containing cleaning
active and wherein the amine-containing cleaning active is selected
from the group consisting of aminocarboxylic complexing agent,
amine oxide surfactant and mixtures thereof.
4. The process according to claim 1 wherein the cleaning-active
capable of generating malodour is an amine-containing cleaning
active and wherein the amine-containing cleaning active is an
aminocarboxylic complexing agent selected from the group consisting
of methyl glycine diacetic acid, its salts and derivatives thereof,
glutamic-N,N-diacetic acid, its salts and derivatives thereof, and
mixtures thereof.
5. The process according claim 1 wherein the cleaning-active
capable of generating malodour is an amine-containing cleaning
active and wherein the amine-containing cleaning active is a salt
of methyl glycine diacetic acid.
6. The process according to claim 1 wherein the cleaning-active
capable of generating malodour generates ammonia.
7. The process according to claim 1 wherein the composition
comprises from about 10% to about 50% by weight of the composition
of the cleaning-active capable of generating malodour.
8. The process according to claim 1 wherein the oxidizing agent is
bleach and the composition comprises from about 5 to about 20% by
weight of the composition of bleach.
9. The process according to claim 1 wherein the cleaning-active
capable of generating malodour is a salt of methyl glycine diacetic
acid and the oxidizing agent is percarbonate.
10. The process according to claim 1 wherein the cleaning-active
capable of generating malodour is in particulate form.
11. The process according to claim 1 wherein the oxidizing agent is
in particulate form.
12. The process according to claim 1 wherein the cleaning-active
capable of generating malodour is a salt of methyl glycine diacetic
acid, the oxidizing agent is percabonate and both the salt of
methyl glycine diacetic acid and the percarbonate are in
particulate form.
13. The process according to claim 1 wherein the unit-dose product
is a tablet or a pouch.
14. A unit-dose cleaning product comprising a cleaning composition,
the composition comprising a cleaning-active capable of generating
malodour and an oxidizing agent, the unit-dose product obtainable
by a process comprising the steps of: i) creating a mixture
comprising the cleaning-active capable of generating malodour and
the oxidising agent; ii) leaving the mixture to rest for a resting
period of at least 24 hours; and iii) converting the mixture into a
unit-dose product.
15. The cleaning product according to claim 14 wherein the product
is an automatic dishwashing product.
16. The pack obtainable according to the process of claim 1 wherein
the content of ammonia in the headspace is less than about 50 ppm
after the pack has been stored at about 32.degree. C. and about 80%
relative humidity for two weeks.
17. A pack comprising a cleaning composition and a headspace
wherein the composition comprises a cleaning-active capable of
generating malodour and an oxidizing agent wherein the content of
ammonia in the headspace is less than about 50 ppm after the pack
has been stored at about 32.degree. C. and about 80% relative
humidity for two weeks.
18. The pack according to claim 17 herein the cleaning composition
comprises from about 10% to about 50% by weight of the composition
of a salt of methyl glycine diacetic acid.
19. The pack according to claim 17 wherein the cleaning composition
comprises from about 5% to about 20% by weight of the composition
of percarbonate.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention is in the field of cleaning products.
In particular it relates to a process for making a pack containing
a cleaning composition, the composition comprises a cleaning-active
capable of generating malodour. The pack resulting from the process
of the invention present reduced malodour.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Some cleaning actives might have malodour associated to
them. This malodour can be made worse by the interaction of the
cleaning active with other components of the cleaning product.
Cleaning products are marketed in packs. Malodours accumulate in
the confined headspace of the pack and are easily perceived when
the pack is opened. This is the first moment of interaction between
the consumer and the product. The acceptance of the product is to a
great extent based on this moment. Consumers find malodours very
unpleasant and may associate them with harsh chemicals. This can
adversely impact on consumer acceptance of the product.
[0003] Malodours could be masked with strong or high levels of
perfume, however, the use of strong perfumes in cleaning product
may not be well accepted by consumers, especially in the case of
automatic dishwashing compositions. Consumers do not like to use
highly perfumed products on items which are going to be in contact
with food.
[0004] The objective of the present invention is to find a cleaning
product that provides good cleaning and at the same time presents a
good olfactory profile.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] According to a first aspect of the invention there is
provided a process for making a pack, the pack containing a
cleaning composition, the composition comprising a cleaning-active
capable of generating malodour. The process reduces the amount of
malodour in the pack.
[0006] The process requires the steps of: [0007] i) creating a
mixture comprising a cleaning-active capable of generating
malodour, especially ammonia, and an oxidising agent, preferably
percarbonate; [0008] ii) leaving the mixture to rest for a resting
period of at least 24 hours, preferably at least 2 days, more
preferably at least 7 days and especially at least 14 days and
preferably less than 1 month; and [0009] iii) optionally, but
preferably, converting the mixture into a unit-dose product; and
[0010] iv) packing the mixture resulting from step ii) or the
unit-dose product resulting from step iii) into a pack.
[0011] By "cleaning-active capable of generating malodour" is
herein understood a cleaning active (i.e., an ingredient of the
cleaning product that contributes to cleaning as opposite to an
ingredient that is present in the product only for processing or
structural reasons) which in the presence of an oxidizing agent
generates malodour, such as ammonia malodour.
[0012] Whether a cleaning active is malodour generating according
to the invention can be determined by measuring the amount of
ammonia generated by a mixture comprising the cleaning active and
an oxidizing agent. For example, whether a cleaning composition is
malodour generating according to the invention, can be determined
by placing 1800 grams of the cleaning active and 600 grams of
sodium percarbonate (oxidizing agent) in a 4.5 litre glass jar. The
jar is placed at room temperature (22.degree. C. and 60% relative
humidity) for 7 days. A cleaning active is considered to generate
malodour if under these conditions generates more than 100 ppm,
preferably more than 400 ppm of ammonia. The amount of ammonia can
be measured using an ammonia detector tube fitted to a Kitagawa
(AP-20) gas aspirating pump.
[0013] By "leaving the mixture to rest" is herein meant that the
mixture is not packed before the end of the resting period.
[0014] The process of the invention greatly reduces the formation
of malodour, especially ammonia odour, in the pack. The olfactory
profile of the product is good.
[0015] The process is applicable for a composition in loose form
(liquid, powders, etc) and it is particularly beneficial for
unit-dose products comprising an amine-containing cleaning
active.
[0016] Amine-containing cleaning actives can generate malodours
that may be caused by impurities, degradation or interaction with
other components of the composition, such as bleach. The pack
resulting from the process of the invention greatly reduces or
overcomes the malodour issues.
[0017] By "cleaning unit-dose product" is herein meant a cleaning
product that contains an amount sufficient to provide enough
detergent for one wash. Suitable unit dose forms include tablets,
pouches, etc. Preferred for use herein are pouches, in which the
cleaning composition is wrapped in water-soluble material
preferably made of polyvinyl alcohol, preferably having a thickness
of less than 100 .mu.m. These films are permeable to amine based
malodours. Packs comprising these cleaning products can present
acute malodour problems.
[0018] Preferably, the cleaning composition of the invention is an
automatic dishwashing cleaning composition, preferably in unit-dose
form and it preferably weighs from about 8 to about 25 grams, more
preferably from about 10 to about 20 grams. This weight range fits
comfortably in a dishwasher dispenser.
[0019] When the composition is in particulate form, the enveloping
material preferably has a pin hole to allow the escape of any gases
that might form during the storage of the detergent product. This
facilitates the escape of amine based malodours further
contributing to the malodour of the detergent pack.
[0020] Aminocarboxylic complexing agents and amine oxide surfactant
are widely used in cleaning products, in particular in automatic
dishwashing products. A very suitable cleaning active is methyl
glycine diacetic acid and its salts (sometimes herein referred to
as "MGDA"). It has been found that when MGDA is part of a cleaning
composition it can give rise to malodour. The malodour can be even
more evident when the composition, in particular in unit-dose form
is contained in a pack. The pack can be impermeable to malodours or
permeable to small malodour molecules. In some cases the rate of
malodour generation is faster than the rate of permeation of the
malodour to the surrounding environment, in this conditions the
malodour can be concentrated in the headspace and it is released
every time that the user opens the pack, this malodour is not very
pleasant and may connote lack of cleaning. Cleaning products packed
according to the process of the invention do not seem to present
this problem, even when the concentration of the cleaning-active
capable of generating malodour is high (for example, from about 10%
to about 50% by weight of the composition).
[0021] The interaction of the cleaning-active capable of generating
malodour with an oxidizing agent can increase the malodour of the
product. Particularly bad olfactory profiles can be generated by
products comprising a cleaning-active capable of generating
malodour and bleach, in particular if the cleaning-active capable
of generating malodour is an amine-containing cleaning active.
[0022] The process of the invention produces compositions in packs
with good olfactory profile even when the product comprises MGDA
and a bleach. Unit-dose products comprising MGDA and bleach
obtained according to a process that does not include a resting
period can present a very unpleasant olfactory profile.
[0023] Preferably both the cleaning-active capable of generating
malodour and the oxidizing agent are present in the composition in
particulate form and if they are part of a multi-compartment pouch,
the cleaning-active capable of generating malodour and the
oxidizing agent are present in the same compartment.
[0024] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is
provided a unit-dose cleaning product obtainable, preferably
obtained, according to the process of the invention. The product
presents very good olfactory profile.
[0025] According to a third aspect of the invention, there is
provided a pack comprising a cleaning composition or a plurality of
unit-dose products obtainable, preferably obtained, according to
the process of the invention. The olfactory profile obtained when
the pack is open is better than when the composition or the
unit-dose products are obtained according to a process that does
not include a resting period.
[0026] According to the last aspect of the invention, there is
provided a pack comprising a cleaning composition and a headspace
wherein the composition comprises a cleaning-active capable of
generating malodour, preferably a salt of methyl glycine diacetic
acid, and an oxidizing agent, preferably percarbonate, wherein the
content of ammonia in the headspace is less than 50 ppm after the
pack has been stored at 32.degree. C. and 80% relative humidity for
two weeks.
[0027] All the features of the first aspect of the invention apply
mutatis mutandis to the other aspects of the invention.
[0028] Preferably, the composition of the invention is alkaline, by
"alkaline" is herein meant that the pH of the composition is
greater than 7, preferably greater than 9 as measured in 1% weight
aqueous solution in distilled water at 20.degree. C. Alkaline
compositions can be more prone to chemical instability caused by
moisture. Preferably the composition of the invention comprises
bleach, more preferably sodium percarbonate. Bleach can contribute
to malodour generation by interacting with the amine-containing
cleaning active.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0029] The present invention envisages a process for making a pack
comprising a cleaning composition. The process allows for the
reduction of malodour in the pack. The composition comprises a
cleaning-active capable of generating malodour. The pack contains a
composition that provides good cleaning and presents good olfactory
profile when opened.
[0030] Process for Making a Pack
[0031] The process comprises the steps of: [0032] i) creating a
mixture comprising: a) the cleaning-active capable of generating
malodour, preferably an amine-containing cleaning active, more
preferably MGDA; and b) an oxidising agent, preferably a bleach,
more preferably percarbonate; [0033] ii) leaving the mixture to
rest for a resting period of at least 24 hours, preferably at least
1 day, more preferably at least 2 days, even more preferably at
least 7 days and especially at least 14 days; and [0034] iii)
optionally but preferably converting the mixture into a unit-dose
product; and [0035] iv) packing the mixture resulting from step ii)
or the unit-dose product resulting from step iii) into a pack.
[0036] Preferably the mixture comprises the cleaning-active capable
of generating malodour and the oxidizing agent in a weight ratio of
from about 6:1 to about 1:1, more preferably from about 5:1 to
about 2:1.
[0037] The mixture can be converted into a unit-dose product by for
example subjecting the mixture to pressure to create a tablet.
Alternatively, the mixture can be converted into a single or
multi-compartment pouch using a process comprising the steps of:
[0038] i) making a first open compartment with a water-soluble
enveloping material, the enveloping material can be a film that is
placed over a mould or the enveloping material can be injection
moulded to form an open compartment, the open compartment is filled
with the mixture; [0039] ii) optionally, but preferably, making a
second open compartment, in a similar way to that used to make the
first open compartment, alternatively, the second open compartment
can be made on top of the first open compartment, the second open
compartment can be filled with the same or a different mixture,
preferably the second compartment is filled with a liquid; and
[0040] iii) closing the open compartment(s) to make a pouch, each
open compartment can be closed with enveloping material, for
example a film, or with another closed compartment.
[0041] The pouches can be made using any known process in the art.
For example, the pouches can be made using a water-soluble film as
described in EP 1 504 994 A2. Alternatively, the pouches can be
made using injection moulding as described in WO 02/092456 or by
using a thermoforming process as described in EP 1 375 637 A1.
[0042] Cleaning Unit-Dose Product
[0043] The composition of the invention can be presented in loose
form (liquids or powders) or in unit-dose form. Products in unit
dose form include tablet, capsules, sachets, pouches, injection
moulded containers, etc. Preferred unit-dose products are pouches,
where the detergent composition is enveloped by a water-soluble
film, preferably having a thickness of less than 100 .mu.m and
injection moulded containers wherein the detergent composition is
placed in a container of water-soluble material made by injection
moulding. Both the detergent composition and the enveloping
material are water-soluble. They readily dissolve when exposed to
water in an automatic dishwashing process, preferably during the
main wash. The detergent products can have a single compartment or
a plurality of compartments. The compartments can comprise a
composition in liquid or solid form. Preferably the composition of
the invention or part thereof is in particulate form and wrapped by
a water-soluble film, preferably having a thickness of less than
100 .mu.m.
[0044] Preferably, the unit dose product can by in the form of a
multi-compartment pouch or injection moulded container. By
"multi-compartment" is herein meant a pouch or injection moulded
container having at least two compartments, preferably at least
three compartments, each compartment contains a composition
surrounded by enveloping material, preferably polyvinyl alcohol.
The compartments can be in any geometrical disposition. The
different compartments can be adjacent to one another, preferably
in contact with one another. Especially preferred configurations
for use herein include superposed compartments (i.e. one above the
other), side-by-side compartments, etc. Especially preferred from a
view point of automatic dishwasher dispenser fit, stability and
enveloping material reduction are multi-compartment pouches or
containers having some superposed compartments and/or some
side-by-side compartments.
[0045] Enveloping Material
[0046] The enveloping material is water soluble. By "water-soluble"
is herein meant that the material has a water-solubility of at
least 50%, preferably at least 75% or even at least 95%, as
measured by the method set out herein after using a glass-filter
with a maximum pore size of 20 microns. 50 grams+-0.1 gram of
enveloping material is added in a pre-weighed 400 ml beaker and 245
ml+-1 ml of distilled water is added. This is stirred vigorously on
a magnetic stirrer set at 600 rpm, for 30 minutes at 20.degree. C.
Then, the mixture is filtered through a folded qualitative
sintered-glass filter with a pore size as defined above (max, 20
micron). The water is dried off from the collected filtrate by any
conventional method, and the weight of the remaining material is
determined (which is the dissolved or dispersed faction). Then, the
% solubility can be calculated.
[0047] The enveloping material is any water-soluble material
capable of enclosing the cleaning composition of the product of the
invention. The enveloping material can be a polymer that has been
injection moulded to provide a casing or it can be a film.
Preferably the enveloping material is made of polyvinyl alcohol.
Preferably the enveloping material is a water-soluble polyvinyl
alcohol film.
[0048] Preferred substances for making the enveloping material
include polymers, copolymers or derivatives thereof selected from
polyvinyl alcohols, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyalkylene oxides,
acrylamide, acrylic acid, cellulose, cellulose ethers, cellulose
esters, cellulose amides, polyvinyl acetates, polycarboxylic acids
and salts, polyaminoacids or peptides, polyamides, polyacrylamide,
copolymers of maleic/acrylic acids, polysaccharides including
starch and gelatine, natural gums such as xanthum and carragum.
More preferred polymers are selected from polyacrylates and
water-soluble acrylate copolymers, methylcellulose,
carboxymethylcellulose sodium, dextrin, ethylcellulose,
hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose,
maltodextrin, polymethacrylates, and most preferably selected from
polyvinyl alcohols, polyvinyl alcohol copolymers and hydroxypropyl
methyl cellulose (HPMC), and combinations thereof. Especially
preferred for use herein is polyvinyl alcohol and even more
preferred polyvinyl alcohol films.
[0049] Most preferred enveloping materials are PVA films known
under the trade reference Monosol M8630, as sold by Kuraray, and
PVA films of corresponding solubility and deformability
characteristics. Other films suitable for use herein include films
known under the trade reference PT film or the K-series of films
supplied by Aicello, or VF-HP film supplied by Kuraray.
[0050] The enveloping material herein may comprise other additive
ingredients than the polymer or polymer material and water. For
example, it may be beneficial to add plasticisers, for example
glycerol, ethylene glycol, diethyleneglycol, propylene glycol,
dipropylene glycol, sorbitol and mixtures thereof. Preferably the
enveloping material comprises glycerol as plasticisers. Other
useful additives include disintegrating aids.
[0051] Cleaning Composition
[0052] The cleaning composition of the invention is presented in
loose form or unit-dose form and it can be in any physical form
including solid, liquid and gel form. The composition of the
invention is very well suited to be presented in the form of a
multi-compartment unit-dose product, more in particular a
multi-compartment unit-dose product comprising compartments with
compositions in different physical forms, for example a compartment
comprising a composition in solid form and another compartment
comprising a composition in liquid form. The composition is
preferably enveloped by a water-soluble film such as polyvinyl
alcohol. The composition comprises malodour-generating
amine-containing cleaning active, preferably an aminocarboxylic
complexing agent, preferably the tri-sodium salt of methyl glycine
diacetic acid and a bleach, preferably sodium percarbonate,
preferably the composition also comprises a dispersant polymer,
more preferably a sulfonated polymer comprising
2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid monomers, and preferably
an inorganic builder, more preferably carbonate, a bleach
activator, a bleach catalyst, protease and amylase enzymes,
non-ionic surfactant, a crystal growth inhibitor, more preferably
HEDP. The composition is preferably free of citrate.
[0053] The composition of the invention preferably has a pH as
measured in 1% weight aqueous solution in distilled water at
20.degree. C. of from about 9 to about 12, more preferably from
about 10 to less than about 11.5 and especially from about 10.5 to
about 11.5.
[0054] The composition of the invention preferably has a reserve
alkalinity of from about 10 to about 20, more preferably from about
12 to about 18 at a pH of 9.5 as measured in NaOH with 100 grams of
product at 20.degree. C.
[0055] Cleaning-Active Capable of Generating Malodour
[0056] The cleaning-active capable of generating malodour is
preferably an amine-containing cleaning active preferably selected
from aminocarboxylic complexing agents, amine oxide surfactants and
mixtures thereof.
[0057] Aminocarboxylic Complexing Agent
[0058] A complexing agent is a material capable of sequestering
hardness ions, particularly calcium and/or magnesium.
[0059] The composition of the invention comprises from 5% to 50% of
complexing agent, preferably from 10 to 45% by weight of the
composition. The complexing agent is preferably selected from the
group consisting of methyl-glycine-diacetic acid, its salts and
derivatives thereof, glutamic-N,N-diacetic acid, its salts and
derivatives thereof, and mixtures thereof. Especially preferred
complexing agent for use herein is a salt of methyl glycine
diacetic acid, in particular the tri-sodium salt.
[0060] Preferably, the complexing agent is in particulate form. The
particle preferably comprises: [0061] a) from 20 to 95%, more
preferable from 40 to 60% by weight of the particle of
aminocarboxylic acid, preferably a salt of methyl glycine diacetic
acid, more preferably the tri-sodium salt; [0062] b) from 5 to 80%
by weight of the particle of material selected from the group
consisting of: [0063] i) polyalkylene glycol, preferably
polyethylene glycol [0064] ii) nonionic surfactant; [0065] iii) a
polymer selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohols,
polyvinylpyrrolidones (PVP), and [0066] iv) a mixture thereof.
[0067] Preferred polyethylene glycols in component (b) have an
average molecular weight (weight-average molecular weight) of from
500 to 30,000 g/mol, more preferably of from 1000 to 5000 g/mol,
most preferably from 1200 to 2000 g/mol.
[0068] Nonionic surfactants in component (b) are preferably
selected from the group consisting of alkoxylated primary alcohols,
alkoxylated fatty alcohols, alkylglycosides, alkoxylated fatty acid
alkyl esters, amine oxides and polyhydroxy fatty acid amides.
Preferably the nonionic surfactant in component (b) has a melting
point of above 20.degree. C.
[0069] The particle may be produced by dissolving components (a)
and (b) in a solvent and spray-drying the resulting mixture, which
may be followed by a granulation step. In this process, components
(a) and (b) may be dissolved separately, in which case the
solutions are subsequently mixed, or a powder mixture of the
components may be dissolved in water. Useful solvents are all of
those which can dissolve components (a) and (b); preference is
given to using, for example, alcohols and/or water, particular
preference to using water. Spray-drying is preferably followed by a
granulation step.
[0070] Preferably the particle has a weight geometric mean particle
size of from about 700 to about 1000 .mu.m with less than about 3%
by weight above about 1180 .mu.m and less than about 5% by weight
below about 200 .mu.m.
[0071] Preferably the particle has a bulk density of at least 550
g/l, more preferably from about 600 to about 1,400 g/l, even more
preferably from about 700 g/l to about 1,200 g/l. This makes the
particle suitable for use in detergent compositions, especially
automatic dishwashing detergent compositions.
[0072] Amine Oxide Surfactant
[0073] Amine oxides surfactants are useful for use in the
composition of the invention. Preferred are C10-C18 alkyl
dimethylamine oxide, and C10-18 acylamido alkyl dimethylamine
oxide. Amine oxide surfactants may be present in amounts from 0 to
15% by weight, preferably from 0.1% to 10%, and most preferably
from 0.25% to 5% by weight of the composition.
[0074] Oxidizing Agent
[0075] An oxidizing agent is an element or compound in an
oxidation-reduction reaction that accepts electrons from other
species. The preferred oxidizing agent for use herein is
bleach.
[0076] Bleach
[0077] The composition of the invention preferably comprises from
about 1 to about 20%, more preferably from about 2 to about 15%,
even more preferably from about 3 to about 12% and especially from
about 4 to about 10% of bleach by weight of the composition.
[0078] Inorganic and organic bleaches are suitable for use herein.
Inorganic bleaches include perhydrate salts such as perborate,
percarbonate, perphosphate, persulfate and persilicate salts. The
inorganic perhydrate salts are normally the alkali metal salts. The
inorganic perhydrate salt may be included as the crystalline solid
without additional protection. Alternatively, the salt can be
coated. Suitable coatings include sodium sulphate, sodium
carbonate, sodium silicate and mixtures thereof. Said coatings can
be applied as a mixture applied to the surface or sequentially in
layers.
[0079] Alkali metal percarbonates, particularly sodium percarbonate
is the preferred bleach for use herein. The percarbonate is most
preferably incorporated into the products in a coated form which
provides in-product stability.
[0080] Potassium peroxymonopersulfate is another inorganic
perhydrate salt of utility herein.
[0081] Typical organic bleaches are organic peroxyacids, especially
dodecanediperoxoic acid, tetradecanediperoxoic acid, and
hexadecanediperoxoic acid. Mono- and diperazelaic acid, mono- and
diperbrassylic acid are also suitable herein. Diacyl and
Tetraacylperoxides, for instance dibenzoyl peroxide and dilauroyl
peroxide, are other organic peroxides that can be used in the
context of this invention.
[0082] Further typical organic bleaches include the peroxyacids,
particular examples being the alkylperoxy acids and the arylperoxy
acids. Preferred representatives are (a) peroxybenzoic acid and its
ring-substituted derivatives, such as alkylperoxybenzoic acids, but
also peroxy-.alpha.-naphthoic acid and magnesium monoperphthalate,
(b) the aliphatic or substituted aliphatic peroxy acids, such as
peroxylauric acid, peroxystearic acid, c-phthalimidoperoxycaproic
acid[phthaloiminoperoxyhexanoic acid (PAP)],
o-carboxybenzamidoperoxycaproic acid, N-nonenylamidoperadipic acid
and N-nonenylamidopersuccinates, and (c) aliphatic and araliphatic
peroxydicarboxylic acids, such as 1,12-diperoxycarboxylic acid,
1,9-diperoxyazelaic acid, diperoxysebacic acid, diperoxybrassylic
acid, the diperoxyphthalic acids, 2-decyldiperoxybutane-1,4-dioic
acid, N,N-terephthaloyldi(6-aminopercaproic acid).
[0083] Bleach Activators
[0084] Bleach activators are typically organic peracid precursors
that enhance the bleaching action in the course of cleaning at
temperatures of 60.degree. C. and below. Bleach activators suitable
for use herein include compounds which, under perhydrolysis
conditions, give aliphatic peroxoycarboxylic acids having
preferably from 1 to 12 carbon atoms, in particular from 2 to 10
carbon atoms, and/or optionally substituted perbenzoic acid.
Suitable substances bear O-acyl and/or N-acyl groups of the number
of carbon atoms specified and/or optionally substituted benzoyl
groups. Preference is given to polyacylated alkylenediamines, in
particular tetraacetylethylenediamine (TAED), acylated triazine
derivatives, in particular
1,5-diacetyl-2,4-dioxohexahydro-1,3,5-triazine (DADHT), acylated
glycolurils, in particular tetraacetylglycoluril (TAGU),
N-acylimides, in particular N-nonanoylsuccinimide (NOSI), acylated
phenolsulfonates, in particular n-nonanoyl- or
isononanoyloxybenzenesulfonate (n- or iso-NOBS), decanoyloxybenzoic
acid
[0085] (DOBA), carboxylic anhydrides, in particular phthalic
anhydride, acylated polyhydric alcohols, in particular triacetin,
ethylene glycol diacetate and 2,5-diacetoxy-2,5-dihydrofuran and
also triethylacetyl citrate (TEAC). If present the composition of
the invention comprises from 0.01 to 1, preferably from 0.2 to 0.5%
by weight of the composition of bleach activator, preferably
TAED.
[0086] Bleach Catalyst
[0087] The composition herein preferably contains a bleach
catalyst, preferably a metal containing bleach catalyst. More
preferably the metal containing bleach catalyst is a transition
metal containing bleach catalyst, especially a manganese or
cobalt-containing bleach catalyst.
[0088] Bleach catalysts preferred for use herein include manganese
triazacyclononane and related complexes; Co, Cu, Mn and Fe
bispyridylamine and related complexes; and pentamine acetate
cobalt(III) and related complexes.
[0089] Preferably the composition of the invention comprises from
0.001 to 0.5, more preferably from 0.002 to 0.05% of bleach
catalyst by weight of the composition. Preferably the bleach
catalyst is a manganese bleach catalyst.
[0090] Inorganic builder
[0091] The composition of the method of the invention preferably
comprises an inorganic builder. Suitable inorganic builders are
selected from the group consisting of carbonate, silicate and
mixtures thereof. Especially preferred for use herein is sodium
carbonate. Preferably the composition of the invention comprises
from 5 to 50%, more preferably from 10 to 40% and especially from
15 to 30% of sodium carbonate by weight of the composition.
[0092] Dispersant Polymer
[0093] The polymer, if present, is used in any suitable amount from
about 0.1% to about 30%, preferably from 0.5% to about 20%, more
preferably from 1% to 10% by weight of the composition. Preferably
the dispersant polymer is a sulfonated polymer, more preferably a
sulfonated polymer comprising 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic
acid monomers and carboxyl monomers.
[0094] Polycarboxylate Polymer
[0095] For example, a wide variety of modified or unmodified
polyacrylates, polyacrylate/maleates, or polyacrylate/methacrylates
are highly useful. It is believed these polymers are excellent
dispersing agents and enhance overall detergent performance,
particularly when used in the composition of the invention.
[0096] Suitable polycarboxylate-based polymers include
polycarboxylate polymers that may have average molecular weights of
from about 500 Da to about 500,000 Da, or from about 1,000 Da to
about 100,000 Da, or even from about 3,000 Da to about 80,000 Da.
Suitable polycarboxylates may be selected from the group comprising
polymers comprising acrylic acid such as Sokalan PA30, PA20, PA15,
PA10 and sokalan CP10 (BASF GmbH, Ludwigshafen, Germany),
Acusol.TM. 45N, 480N, 460N and 820 (sold by Rohm and Haas,
Philadelphia, Pa., USA) polyacrylic acids, such as Acusol.TM. 445
and Acusol.TM. 420 (sold by Rohm and Haas, Philadelphia, Pa., USA)
acrylic/maleic co-polymers, such as Acusol.TM. 425N and
acrylic/methacrylic copolymers.
[0097] Alkoxylated polycarboxylates such as those prepared from
polyacrylates are useful herein to and can provide additional
grease suspension. Chemically, these materials comprise
polyacrylates having one ethoxy side-chain per every 7-8 acrylate
units. The side-chains are ester-linked to the polyacrylate
"backbone" to provide a "comb" polymer type structure. The
molecular weight can vary, but may be in the range of about 2000 to
about 50,000.
[0098] Unsaturated monomeric acids that can be polymerized to form
suitable dispersing polymers include acrylic acid, maleic acid (or
maleic anhydride), fumaric acid, itaconic acid, aconitic acid,
mesaconic acid, citraconic acid and methylenemalonic acid. The
presence of monomeric segments containing no carboxylate radicals
such as methyl vinyl ether, styrene, ethylene, etc. is suitable
provided that such segments do not constitute more than about 50%
by weight of the dispersant polymer.
[0099] Co-polymers of acrylamide and acrylate having a molecular
weight of from about 3,000 to about 100,000, preferably from about
4,000 to about 20,000, and an acrylamide content of less than about
50%, preferably less than about 20%, by weight of the dispersant
polymer can also be used. Most preferably, such dispersant polymer
has a molecular weight of from about 4,000 to about 20,000 and an
acrylamide content of from about 0% to about 15%, by weight of the
polymer.
[0100] Sulfonated Polymers
[0101] Suitable sulfonated polymers described herein may have a
weight average molecular weight of less than or equal to about
100,000 Da, preferably less than or equal to about 75,000 Da, more
preferably less than or equal to about 50,000 Da, more preferably
from about 3,000 Da to about 50,000, and specially from about 5,000
Da to about 45,000 Da.
[0102] The sulfonated polymers preferably comprises carboxylic acid
monomers and sulfonated monomers. Preferred carboxylic acid
monomers include one or more of the following: acrylic acid, maleic
acid, itaconic acid, methacrylic acid, or ethoxylate esters of
acrylic acids, acrylic and methacrylic acids being more preferred.
Preferred sulfonated monomers include one or more of the following:
sodium (meth) allyl sulfonate, vinyl sulfonate, sodium phenyl
(meth) allyl ether sulfonate, or 2-acrylamido-methyl propane
sulfonic acid. Preferred non-ionic monomers include one or more of
the following: methyl (meth) acrylate, ethyl (meth) acrylate,
t-butyl (meth) acrylate, methyl (meth) acrylamide, ethyl (meth)
acrylamide, t-butyl (meth) acrylamide, styrene, or a-methyl
styrene.
[0103] Specially preferred sulfonated polymers for use herein are
those comprising monomers of acrylic acid and monomers of
2-acrylamido-methyl propane sulfonic acid.
[0104] In the polymers, all or some of the carboxylic or sulfonic
acid groups can be present in neutralized form, i.e. the acidic
hydrogen atom of the carboxylic and/or sulfonic acid group in some
or all acid groups can be replaced with metal ions, preferably
alkali metal ions and in particular with sodium ions.
[0105] Preferred commercial available polymers include: Alcosperse
240, Aquatreat AR 540 and Aquatreat MPS supplied by Alco Chemical;
Acumer 3100, Acumer 2000, Acusol 587G and Acusol 588G supplied by
Rohm & Haas; Goodrich K-798, K-775 and K-797 supplied by BF
Goodrich; and ACP 1042 supplied by ISP technologies Inc.
Particularly preferred polymers are Acusol 587G and Acusol 588G
supplied by Rohm & Haas, Versaflex Si.TM. (sold by Alco
Chemical, Tennessee, USA) and those described in U.S. Pat. No.
5,308,532 and in WO 2005/090541.
[0106] Suitable styrene co-polymers may be selected from the group
comprising, styrene co-polymers with acrylic acid and optionally
sulphonate groups, having average molecular weights in the range
1,000-50,000, or even 2,000-10,000 such as those supplied by Alco
Chemical Tennessee, USA, under the tradenames Alcosperse.RTM. 729
and 747.
[0107] Other dispersant polymers useful herein include the
cellulose sulfate esters such as cellulose acetate sulfate,
cellulose sulfate, hydroxyethyl cellulose sulfate, methylcellulose
sulfate, and hydroxypropylcellulose sulfate. Sodium cellulose
sulfate is the most preferred polymer of this group.
[0108] Other suitable dispersant polymers are the carboxylated
polysaccharides, particularly starches, celluloses and alginates.
Preferred cellulose-derived dispersant polymers are the
carboxymethyl celluloses.
[0109] Yet another group of acceptable dispersing agents are the
organic dispersing polymers, such as polyaspartates.
[0110] Amphilic graft co-polymer are useful for use herein.
Suitable amphilic graft co-polymer comprises (i) polyethylene
glycol backbone; and (ii) and at least one pendant moiety selected
from polyvinyl acetate, polyvinyl alcohol and mixtures thereof. In
other examples, the amphilic graft copolymer is Sokalan HP22,
supplied from BASF.
[0111] Surfactant
[0112] Surfactants suitable for use herein include non-ionic
surfactants, preferably the compositions are free of any other
surfactants. Traditionally, non-ionic surfactants have been used in
automatic dishwashing for surface modification purposes in
particular for sheeting to avoid filming and spotting and to
improve shine. It has been found that non-ionic surfactants can
also contribute to prevent redeposition of soils.
[0113] Preferably the composition of the invention comprises a
non-ionic surfactant or a non-ionic surfactant system, more
preferably the non-ionic surfactant or a non-ionic surfactant
system has a phase inversion temperature, as measured at a
concentration of 1% in distilled water, between 40 and 70.degree.
C., preferably between 45 and 65.degree. C. By a "non-ionic
surfactant system" is meant herein a mixture of two or more
non-ionic surfactants. Preferred for use herein are non-ionic
surfactant systems. They seem to have improved cleaning and
finishing properties and better stability in product than single
non-ionic surfactants.
[0114] Phase inversion temperature is the temperature below which a
surfactant, or a mixture thereof, partitions preferentially into
the water phase as oil-swollen micelles and above which it
partitions preferentially into the oil phase as water swollen
inverted micelles. Phase inversion temperature can be determined
visually by identifying at which temperature cloudiness occurs.
[0115] The phase inversion temperature of a non-ionic surfactant or
system can be determined as follows: a solution containing 1% of
the corresponding surfactant or mixture by weight of the solution
in distilled water is prepared. The solution is stirred gently
before phase inversion temperature analysis to ensure that the
process occurs in chemical equilibrium. The phase inversion
temperature is taken in a thermostable bath by immersing the
solutions in 75 mm sealed glass test tube. To ensure the absence of
leakage, the test tube is weighed before and after phase inversion
temperature measurement. The temperature is gradually increased at
a rate of less than 1.degree. C. per minute, until the temperature
reaches a few degrees below the pre-estimated phase inversion
temperature. Phase inversion temperature is determined visually at
the first sign of turbidity.
[0116] Suitable nonionic surfactants include: i) ethoxylated
non-ionic surfactants prepared by the reaction of a monohydroxy
alkanol or alkyphenol with 6 to 20 carbon atoms with preferably at
least 12 moles particularly preferred at least 16 moles, and still
more preferred at least 20 moles of ethylene oxide per mole of
alcohol or alkylphenol; ii) alcohol alkoxylated surfactants having
a from 6 to 20 carbon atoms and at least one ethoxy and propoxy
group. Preferred for use herein are mixtures of surfactants i) and
ii).
[0117] Another suitable non-ionic surfactants are epoxy-capped
poly(oxyalkylated) alcohols represented by the formula:
R1O[CH2CH(CH3)O]x[CH2CH2O]y[CH2CH(OH)R2] (I)
[0118] wherein R1 is a linear or branched, aliphatic hydrocarbon
radical having from 4 to 18 carbon atoms; R2 is a linear or
branched aliphatic hydrocarbon radical having from 2 to 26 carbon
atoms; x is an integer having an average value of from 0.5 to 1.5,
more preferably about 1; and y is an integer having a value of at
least 15, more preferably at least 20.
[0119] Preferably, the surfactant of formula I, at least about 10
carbon atoms in the terminal epoxide unit [CH2CH(OH)R2]. Suitable
surfactants of formula I, according to the present invention, are
Olin Corporation's POLY-TERGENT.RTM. SLF-18B nonionic surfactants,
as described, for example, in WO 94/22800, published Oct. 13, 1994
by Olin Corporation.
[0120] Enzymes
[0121] In describing enzyme variants herein, the following
nomenclature is used for ease of reference: Original amino
acid(s):position(s):substituted amino acid(s). Standard enzyme
IUPAC 1-letter codes for amino acids are used.
[0122] Proteases
[0123] Suitable proteases include metalloproteases and serine
proteases, including neutral or alkaline microbial serine
proteases, such as subtilisins (EC 3.4.21.62) as well as chemically
or genetically modified mutants thereof. Suitable proteases include
subtilisins (EC 3.4.21.62), including those derived from Bacillus,
such as Bacillus lentus, B. alkalophilus, B. subtilis, B.
amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus pumilus and Bacillus gibsonii.
[0124] Especially preferred proteases for the detergent of the
invention are polypeptides demonstrating at least 90%, preferably
at least 95%, more preferably at least 98%, even more preferably at
least 99% and especially 100% identity with the wild-type enzyme
from Bacillus lentus, comprising mutations in one or more,
preferably two or more and more preferably three or more of the
following positions, using the BPN' numbering system and amino acid
abbreviations as illustrated in WO00/37627, which is incorporated
herein by reference:V68A, N87S, S99D, S99SD, S99A, S101G, S101M,
S103A, V104N/I, G118V, G118R, S128L, P129Q, S130A, Y167A, R1705,
A194P, V205I and/or M222S.
[0125] Most preferably the protease is selected from the group
comprising the below mutations (BPN' numbering system) versus
either the PB92 wild-type (SEQ ID NO:2 in WO 08/010925) or the
subtilisin 309 wild-type (sequence as per PB92 backbone, except
comprising a natural variation of N87S). [0126] (i)
G118V+S128L+P129Q+S130A [0127] (ii) S101M+G118V+S128L+P129Q+S130A
[0128] (iii) N76D+N87R+G118R+S128L+P129Q+S130A+S188D+N248R [0129]
(iv) N76D+N87R+G118R+S128L+P129Q+S130A+S188D+V244R [0130] (v)
N76D+N87R+G118R+S128L+P129Q+S130A [0131] (vi)
V68A+N87S+S101G+V104N
[0132] Suitable commercially available protease enzymes include
those sold under the trade names Savinase.RTM., Polarzyme.RTM.,
Kannase.RTM., Ovozyme.RTM., Everlase.RTM. and Esperase.RTM. by
Novozymes A/S (Denmark), those sold under the tradename
Properase.RTM., Purafect.RTM., Purafect Prime.RTM., Purafect
Ox.RTM., FN3.RTM., FN4.RTM., Excellase.RTM., Ultimase.RTM. and
Purafect OXP.RTM. by Genencor International, those sold under the
tradename Opticlean.RTM. and Optimase.RTM. by Solvay Enzymes, those
available from Henkel/ Kemira, namely BLAP.
[0133] Preferred levels of protease in the product of the invention
include from about 0.1 to about 10, more preferably from about 0.5
to about 7 and especially from about 1 to about 6 mg of active
protease.
[0134] Amylases
[0135] Preferred enzyme for use herein includes alpha-amylases,
including those of bacterial or fungal origin. Chemically or
genetically modified mutants (variants) are included. A preferred
alkaline alpha-amylase is derived from a strain of Bacillus, such
as Bacillus licheniformis, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus
stearothermophilus, Bacillus subtilis, or other Bacillus sp., such
as Bacillus sp. NCIB 12289, NCIB 12512, NCIB 12513, DSM 9375 (U.S.
Pat. No. 7,153,818) DSM 12368, DSMZ no. 12649, KSM AP1378 (WO
97/00324), KSM K36 or KSM K38 (EP 1,022,334). Preferred amylases
include: [0136] (a) the variants described in U.S. Pat. No.
5,856,164 and WO99/23211, WO 96/23873, WO00/60060 and WO 06/002643,
especially the variants with one or more substitutions in the
following positions versus the AA560 enzyme listed as SEQ ID No. 12
in WO 06/002643: [0137] 9, 26, 30, 33, 82, 37, 106, 118, 128, 133,
149, 150, 160, 178, 182, 186, 193, 195, 202, 214, 231, 256, 257,
258, 269, 270, 272, 283, 295, 296, 298, 299, 303, 304, 305, 311,
314, 315, 318, 319, 320, 323, 339, 345, 361, 378, 383, 419, 421,
437, 441, 444, 445, 446, 447, 450, 458, 461, 471, 482, 484,
preferably that also contain the deletions of D183* and G184*.
[0138] (b) variants exhibiting at least 95% identity with the
wild-type enzyme from Bacillus sp.707 (SEQ ID NO:7 in U.S. Pat. No.
6,093,562), especially those comprising one or more of the
following mutations M202, M208, S255, R172, and/or M261. Preferably
said amylase comprises one of M202L or M202T mutations.
[0139] Suitable commercially available alpha-amylases include
DURAMYL.RTM., LIQUEZYME.RTM., TERMAMYL.RTM., TERMAMYL ULTRA.RTM.,
NATALASE.RTM., SUPRAMYL.RTM., STAINZYME.RTM., STAINZYME PLUS.RTM.,
POWERASE.RTM., FUNGAMYL.RTM. and BAN.RTM. (Novozymes A/S,
Bagsvaerd, Denmark), KEMZYM.RTM. AT 9000 Biozym Biotech Trading
GmbH Wehlistrasse 27b A-1200 Wien Austria, RAPIDASE.RTM.,
PURASTAR.RTM., ENZYSIZE.RTM., OPTISIZE HT PLUS.RTM. and PURASTAR
OXAM.RTM. (Genencor International Inc., Palo Alto, Calif.) and
KAM.RTM. (Kao, 14-10 Nihonbashi Kayabacho, 1-chome, Chuo-ku Tokyo
103-8210, Japan). Amylases especially preferred for use herein
include NATALASE.RTM., STAINZYME.RTM., STAINZYME PLUS.RTM.,
POWERASE.RTM. and mixtures thereof.
[0140] Preferably, the product of the invention comprises at least
0.01 mg, preferably from about 0.05 to about 10, more preferably
from about 0.1 to about 6, especially from about 0.2 to about 5 mg
of active amylase.
[0141] Additional Enzymes
[0142] Additional enzymes suitable for use in the product of the
invention can comprise one or more enzymes selected from the group
comprising hemicellulases, cellulases, cellobiose dehydrogenases,
peroxidases, proteases, xylanases, lipases, phospholipases,
esterases, cutinases, pectinases, mannanases, pectate lyases,
keratinases, reductases, oxidases, phenoloxidases, lipoxygenases,
ligninases, pullulanases, tannases, pentosanases, malanases,
.beta.-glucanases, arabinosidases, hyaluronidase, chondroitinase,
laccase, amylases, and mixtures thereof.
[0143] Preferably, the protease and/or amylase of the product of
the invention are in the form of granulates, the granulates
comprise less than 29% of sodium sulfate by weight of the granulate
or the sodium sulfate and the active enzyme (protease and/or
amylase) are in a weight ratio of less than 4:1.
[0144] Crystal Growth Inhibitor
[0145] Crystal growth inhibitors are materials that can bind to
calcium carbonate crystals and prevent further growth of species
such as aragonite and calcite.
[0146] Especially preferred crystal growth inhibitor for use herein
is HEDP (1-hydroxyethylidene 1,1-diphosphonic acid). Preferably,
the composition of the invention comprises from 0.01 to 5%, more
preferably from 0.05 to 3% and especially from 0.5 to 2% of a
crystal growth inhibitor by weight of the product, preferably
HEDP.
[0147] Metal Care Agents
[0148] Metal care agents may prevent or reduce the tarnishing,
corrosion or oxidation of metals, including aluminium, stainless
steel and non-ferrous metals, such as silver and copper.
[0149] Preferably the composition of the invention comprises from
0.1 to 5%, more preferably from 0.2 to 4% and especially from 0.3
to 3% by weight of the product of a metal care agent, preferably
the metal care agent is benzo triazole (BTA).
[0150] Glass Care Agents
[0151] Glass care agents protect the appearance of glass items
during the dishwashing process. Preferably the composition of the
invention comprises from 0.1 to 5%, more preferably from 0.2 to 4%
and specially from 0.3 to 3% by weight of the composition of a
metal care agent, preferably the glass care agent is a zinc
containing material, specially hydrozincite.
[0152] Detergent Pack
[0153] The detergent pack can be a tub, tray, jar, bottle, bag,
box, etc, preferably the pack is reclosable. Preferably the
packaging container has a moisture vapour transfer rate of less
than 0.25 g/m2/day at 38.degree. C. and 90% relative humidity.
Suitable packaging containers for use herein include those
described in WO 02/20361. A specially preferred packaging container
is a self-standing flexible bag as described in WO 03/047998 page
4, lines 6 to 26 and FIG. 1, preferably with a non-return valve.
Preferably the pack is a reclosable flexible bag and preferably
self-standing.
[0154] By "flexible" bag is understood a bag which can be easily
deformed with a hand squeeze, preferably deformed by the mere act
of holding the bag.
EXAMPLES
[0155] To illustrate the advantages of the invention, dishwashing
detergent compositions were prepared following two different
processes. Two dual-compartment automatic dishwashing pouches were
made comprising the ingredients detailed herein below. The pouches
were made of polyvinyl alcohol (Monosol 8630, supplied by Kuraray)
with the powder and liquid components in different compartments.
Product A was made according to the process of the invention,
premixing the solid ingredients including MGDA and sodium
percarbonate and allowing the premix to rest for a 14 day period
before converting the mixture into a pouch. Product B was made as a
comparative product by mixing all the components and converting the
mixture into a pouch on the same day.
TABLE-US-00001 14.70 g Powder phase Active parts (% weight) MGDA
39.21 Sodium Carbonate 26.14 Sodium Percarbonate 13.07 Sulphonated
polymer 2.61 Non-ionic surfactant 0.70 Sodium
1-hydroxyethane-1,1-diphosphonate 0.68 Protease 0.23 Amylase 0.03
Bleach catalyst 0.03 Perfume and Miscellaneous Balance to 100 2.18
g Liquid phase Active parts (% weight) Non-ionic surfactant 2 41.00
Non-ionic surfactant 1 39.00 Dipropylene glycol 20.00 MGDA: Trilon
M supplied by BASF Sulphonated polymer: Acusol 588 supplied by Rhom
and Haas Nonionic surfactant 1: Plurafact SLF180 supplied by BASF
Nonionic surfactant 2: Lutensol TO7 supplied by BASF Bleach
catalyst: Manganese based bleach catalyst.
[0156] Once the pouches were made, two bags containing 30 pouches
of Product A, and two bags containing 30 pouches of Product B were
prepared. The bags are self-standing flexible polypropylene bags
(30 count Fairy ActionPac commercial bags) and thermally
sealed.
[0157] One bag of each was then placed in a 32.degree. C., 80%
relative humidity oven for 8 weeks. After four, six and eight weeks
the bags were then pierced with an ammonia detector tube fitted to
a Kitagawa (AP-20) gas aspirating pump to measure the concentration
of airborne ammonia in the headspace of the bag and the whole
immediately resealed.
TABLE-US-00002 NH.sub.3 ppm in Product A Product B bag headspace
Packed after 2 weeks Packed immediately Stored at 32.degree. C./80%
RH 4 weeks 3 60 6 weeks 15 500 8 weeks 100 550
[0158] As it can be seen from the above table, pouches made
according to the process of the invention generate less ammonia,
and therefore create less malodour in the pack, than pouches made
according to a process outside the scope of the invention.
[0159] The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be
understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values
recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension
is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally
equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension
disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm".
[0160] Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced
or related patent or application, is hereby incorporated herein by
reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise
limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it
is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed
herein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other
reference or references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such
invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of
a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of
the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning
or definition assigned to that term in this document shall
govern.
[0161] While particular embodiments of the present invention have
been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those
skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can
be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims
all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of
this invention.
* * * * *